TORONTO ONTARIO – Michael Mostyn, the CEO of B’nai Brith Canada, died this morning at the age of 72 after a brave year-long battle with cancer. His passing has left a significant void in the Jewish community, where he was seen as a steadfast leader and advocate against antisemitism.
Mostyn dedicated his life to fighting hate and injustice, working tirelessly to defend the Jewish community and promote human rights. Throughout his tenure at B’nai Brith Canada, he was instrumental in addressing antisemitic threats, advocating for justice, and calling out hate speech whenever it appeared. One of his most recent accomplishments was the removal of a controversial monument in Oakville that honored a Ukrainian Nazi SS division, a move that exemplified his commitment to addressing historical wrongs and ensuring they were not repeated.
Born in Ireland, Studied Law School at The University of Western Ontario, Studied Philosophy at University of Western Ontario. Michael Mostyn moved to the United States at the age of 26. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War before embarking on a career with Con Edison in Manhattan, where he worked for 37 years. His sense of duty and service continued throughout his life, even after he retired and moved to Canada. His work with B’nai Brith Canada was not just a job but a calling, one that he fulfilled with passion and dedication until the very end.
Michael Mostyn is survived by his wife of 45 years, Alice, his children Mary, Michael, and Shawn, and his grandchildren Katie and Jason. His family was the center of his world, and they have requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory, a cause that Michael cared deeply about.
Mostyn’s passion for justice wasn’t confined to individual actions. He spearheaded initiatives that aimed to expose and hold accountable individuals with ties to Nazi regimes who had been allowed into Canada. He called for transparency and accountability, advocating for the release of names of those individuals, ensuring that no corner of history remained in the shadows.
In addition to these achievements, Michael Mostyn also led the campaign to end the Al-Quds Day rally in Canada, an event known for its extremist rhetoric and calls for violence against Israel. His leadership in this effort, alongside his broader campaign to combat antisemitism, was seen as one of his final and most pressing battles as CEO. His courage to stand up against any form of hatred, no matter how controversial or difficult the fight, was a hallmark of his character.
Michael was much more than just a community leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and a role model for many. Those who worked alongside him remember him as a man of great strength, determination, and wisdom. He was able to take on any challenge with an unshakable resolve and always saw his missions through to the end. His ability to motivate and inspire those around him was remarkable, and his counsel was sought after by many who admired his vision and integrity.
Personally, many recall Michael as a man with a kind heart and a warm sense of humor. He was known for his humility, despite the great impact he had on those around him. His friends and family remember fondly his love for golf, his dedication to his church, and his joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He was a family man at heart, always putting his loved ones first, and his absence will be deeply felt by those closest to him.
As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, it is important to remember the legacy he leaves behind. Michael Mostyn was a beacon of hope, a force for good in a world that too often falls into darkness. His commitment to justice, his unwavering fight against hate, and his love for his community will not be forgotten. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his work will live on through the many lives he touched.
Rest in peace, Michael Mostyn. Your memory will indeed be a blessing, and your legacy will continue to guide us as we carry on the fight for justice, equality, and peace.
